Samuel H. Kessler

Samuel H. Kessler, 94, Ladoga, died Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012 at his home, victim of a violent crime.

He was born Nov. 5, 1917 in New Ross to Benjamin Kessler and Cora (Harshbargar) Kessler.

On Sept. 22 1945 he married Norma Jane Otterman, who preceded him in death.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, a brother and two sisters.

He is survived by his children, Mike, David, Benjamin and Cathy, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His love was farming, which he did for more than 80 years and was only interrupted for three years during World War II.

Samuel served in the 1st Infantry Division in the North African Theater, participated in the Sicilian invasion and victory, landed on Omaha Beach on D-Day, and walked to Germany. His battlefield honors and metals were numerous, upholding his family's tradition of serving his country since the Revolutionary War.

Samuel served his community multiple ways. From the mid 1960s to the early 1990s, he served Montgomery County as a commissioner, county councilman and township trustee.

He was a member of the American Legion and the VFW.

Memorials may be made to the Ladoga Cemetery Association in lieu of flowers.

Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7 at the Old Normal at 100 N. Harrison St. in Ladoga.

Graveside memorial services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8 at the Ladoga Cemetery. Interment will follow immediately.

Servies and Morgan Funeral Home at Ladoga is assisting the family with the arrangements.